PAST215 Christianity, Society and Ministry in New Zealand

Using the lens of Christendom and post-Christendom, this paper examines the history
of Christianity in New Zealand, its place and voice in society, and the contemporary
challenges for ministry.

This paper offers an introduction to three areas of theology in their New Zealand
context. Students will gain an overview of the history of Christianity in New Zealand
and then consider how global issues in public theology and in church leadership and
ministry play out in the New Zealand setting.

Any student can study Theology, whether they are of the Christian faith, another faith
or of no religious faith at all. Theology is an examination of the scriptures, history,
content and relevance of the Christian faith, but it presupposes or requires no Christian
commitment from students. All it requires is an inquiring mind and an interest in
those skills that can be gained through the study of any subject in the Humanities.